Why Have a Conservatory? A
Conservatory can add space to your
living accommodation. You may use this as, for instance, a
breakfast room or a
sun lounge. Of course you may simply build
another room - essentially that's what a Conservatory is - but a
Conservatory may be a cheaper or more suitable means of extending
your home.

The
advent of modern materials and techniques - such as timber,
aluminium and PVCu frames and double glazing - has led to a
resurgence in the popularity of Conservatories. Now they are
no longer limited to heated outhouses for keeping plants but are
frequent additions to many homes - often becoming a major feature.

What to Consider? There are
three main issues to decide - Where do
you want your Conservatory?
What size should your
Conservatory be? How should your
Conservatory be constructed?

The
layout of your house may offer some alternative positions.
Where you put your Conservatory and the
rooms it connects to will affect how it is used. The size will
certainly affect what you can use it for - you may have limited
space, but in general Conservatories
that are too small may not provide all the benefits you expect from
them. The Materials and Design will affect the price,
appearance and durability of your Conservatory. You will need
to look at a variety of material and designs on offer to find what
suits you best. Remember that every supplier will try to
stress the "benefits" of their particular materials or designs.
Before making your final choice and comparing quotes, make sure that
you receive quotes for similar styles and materials.

Planning and Building Regulations
There may be local Planning or Building
Regulations that you need to comply with - reputable
suppliers will be able to advise you on these and probably make all
the necessary arrangements. In general, provided that the
Conservatory is predominantly glazed
and is separated from your main dwelling by a lockable door, it is
less likely to be subject to Building Regulations.
Planning Permission is more likely to
be required if the position of the conservatory is visible to
neighbours.